(THOMASTON, ME): Local libraries have a new addition to their educational resources, thanks to a donation from the Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County (PMHSKC). PMHSKC is contributing copies of recently released children’s book, “Fairminded Fran and the Three Small Black Community Cats”, a story about feral cats and how trap-neuter-release programs can reduce their suffering, to 21 Midcoast libraries.

“We are very excited about the message in this book. By making it available to kids through the local libraries, we’re hoping to convey humane values and concern about homeless animals – an important part of our mission”, said PMHSKC Director Tracy Sala.

Thomaston Public Library Head Librarian Ann Harris added: “We are definitely going to include this book in our children’s story hours starting this fall. It’s a wonderful way to introduce children to the world of feral cats and how our communities can better care for them.”

Published in October 2012 by the Foundation for Critical Thinking, “Fairminded Fran and the Three Small Black Community Cats” was written by Linda Elder and Kathy Abney. This is one of the only books available that focuses on the issues and needs of feral cats and how to help them, while instilling compassion among its young readers.

The PMHSKC was founded in 1989 to provide care, protection, and loving homes for abandoned and homeless companion animals in the Midcoast Maine area. The Society operates an animal shelter located between the Dexter Street Extension and Buttermilk Lane in Thomaston that is open between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sundays). The Humane Society of Knox County provides animal support services to the towns of Rockland, Thomaston, Warren, Owls Head, St. George, Port Clyde, Martinsville, Tenants Harbor, S. Thomaston (including Spruce Head), Hope, Union, Appleton, Montville, Cushing, Matinicus, North Haven, Vinalhaven, Stockton Springs, and Morrill.